Iliotibial tract

Anatomical structure in the human body

Posterior view of the hip muscles, showing the iliotibial tract.

The iliotibial tract (also known as the iliotibial band or IT band) is a longitudinal fibrous reinforcement of the fascia lata. It is an important structure in the lateral aspect of the thigh and plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee during activities such as walking and running.

Anatomy

The iliotibial tract is a thick band of connective tissue that extends from the iliac crest of the pelvis down to the lateral condyle of the tibia. It is formed by the thickening of the fascia lata, the deep fascia of the thigh. The tract is anchored to the femur via the lateral intermuscular septum.

Attachments

The iliotibial tract originates from the tensor fasciae latae and the gluteus maximus muscles. These muscles insert into the tract, which then continues down the lateral side of the thigh to attach to the Gerdy's tubercle on the tibia.

Function

The primary function of the iliotibial tract is to stabilize the knee laterally. It assists in maintaining knee extension and provides lateral support to the knee joint. The tract also plays a role in hip abduction, flexion, and medial rotation due to its connection with the tensor fasciae latae and gluteus maximus.

Clinical Significance

The iliotibial tract is often associated with iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), a common overuse injury among runners and cyclists. ITBS is characterized by pain on the lateral side of the knee, which is caused by inflammation of the tract as it rubs against the lateral femoral epicondyle.

Related pages

• Fascia lata
• Tensor fasciae latae
• Gluteus maximus
• Knee joint
• Iliotibial band syndrome